ATO Fraud and Scams

There has been a spate of ATO scams circulating over the last few months. Whilst data security is of the utmost importance in the ever evolving world of technology, these so called ‘scammers’ continue to launch aggressive campaigns, where even the ATO with all its resources is not off limits.

Scam emails, faxes, SMS and phone calls can look or sound very convincing. However, you can generally tell they’re not genuine when they offer you an unexpected refund or grant and ask you to provide personal information, credit card information or money.

There have been a number of reports of late where taxpayers have received a phone call from the ‘ATO’; which has unfortunately ended up with payments being made over the phone to scammers.

We have had a few instances where DIAGNO clients have received ‘questionable’ phone calls, text messages and emails; which have in fact been fraudulent. Thankfully, these clients have contacted the office and we were able to confirm their suspicions and no malice was done.

Whilst we do not want to ‘scare munger’, we feel there is merit in communicating what to be aware of when keeping an eye out for fraudulent ATO activity; as per the following:

1. There are two types of approach:

The caller says they’re from the ATO. They want you to pay a debt (which you know nothing about), or are asking for your personal details; or
Offering you a tax refund or grant and asking for personal details.

2. If you receive a questionable phone call from the ATO, ask

For their full name and extension number; along with
Their team leader’s full name and extension number.

3. If the information provided is still questionable, end the call and either:

Call the ATO on 1800 008 540 to verify that the caller is from the ATO;
Or call one of the team at DIAGNO on 07 55521100 to verify and confirm the phone call.

4. If a questionable email or SMS is received; it is important to:

Not open any attachments or hyperlinks.

Report the email by forwarding the whole email to the ATO at ReportEmailFraud@ato.gov.au.

The ATO will never email you asking for personal or credit card details, and you should never provide this information.

If you have any concerns, the team at DIAGNO is here to help.

As your ATO registered tax agent we can follow up any “tax related” issue directly with the ATO on your behalf